Inter-PLMN Handover

The Problem
An operator was having difficulties with inter PLMN Handover. The handover was X2 with no
change in MME, MME Group or SGW. The TAC number was same for both eNB's but the TAI's
were different. After successful handoff TAU event was triggered. In the TAU response, the MME
sometimes sent the source eNB PLMN as the serving PLMN and sometimes the MME sent the
target PLMN as the serving PLMN.

Which behaviour is correct? Which spec outlines the correct behaviour?

Additional info: When the serving PLMN changed to the target eNB PLMN then subsequent
handoffs succeeded otherwise they were rejected by the MME.

Explanation / 3dB consult recommendation

In X2-based HO the TAU process is launched after HO is completed, if the TA of the target eNB
is not in the list of TAIs that the UE registered with the network. Moreover, in the HO process, if
the serving PLMN changes during X2-based handover, the source eNodeB shall indicate to the
target eNodeB (in the Handover Restriction List) the PLMN selected to be the new Serving
PLMN. So, taking all that into account, once the HO was completed, the MME should always
send the target PLMN as the serving PLMN.

For more information about X2-based HO and TAU triggers please refer to TS-23.401
sections 5.5.1.1.2 and 5.3.3.0 or contact 3dB consult http://3dbconsult.com/en/contact.html

Additional info
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For more information about this or other 2G/3G/4G topics, get in contact with 3dB at: toomas.sarv@3dbconsult.com
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For more information about this or other 2G/3G/4G topics, get in contact with 3dB at: toomas.sarv@3dbconsult.com